Author(s): Jingwen Wang; Lianjun Zhao; Baosen Zhang; Yu Deng; Heli Yu
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Ice regime; Ice jam; Break-up process; Flood risk; Yellow River
Abstract: The Inner Mongolia reach of the Yellow River is a typical high-risk area in northern China subject to frequent ice flood disasters. This study focuses on the freeze-up and break-up periods, investigating the processes and influencing factors of river ice evolution through field monitoring. First, based on data from the Shisifenzi monitoring site over the past six years, we examine variations in temperature, ice thickness, and water level, as well as the contributing factors to spatio-temporal changes in ice thickness during ice growth and decay. The site-specific cumulative negative air temperature is identified as the dominant factor controlling annual maximum ice thickness, with a contribution rate of 53.31%. A significant cumulative lag effect is revealed between ice thickness and air temperature, with the correlation coefficient increasing from 0.077 (1-day) to 0.608 (35-day). An empirical relationship is established as H ≈ 0.0245sqrt(T) + 0.0419. In addition, critical thresholds for ice jam formation and failure- mainly occurring during the break-up period-are identified. The transition from abrupt to gradual changes in discharge during ice jam evolution is described mathematically, providing a scientific basis for ice jam management. This research offers theoretical and technical support for ice flood prevention and mitigation on the Yellow River.
Year: 2026